Studio Info

The “Experience”

We know that every detail deserves our attention, that is why a portrait session at Behnke Photographers is an all-inclusive experience , similar to commissioned artwork. It is a four part process that allows us to create a truly remarkable portrait for you. The Consultation/Design Session is when we discuss the location, clothing and style of portrait you desire. The Portrait Session is a fun-filled time that brings subjects and photographer together to create the portrait. Next is the In-Studio Viewing Session where you will be treated to an audiovisual presentation of the images from your portrait session and the opportunity to view each image via our digital presentation. We’ll take the time to go over every detail to assist in your final selection. We can help you select a frame, from our large selection of custom finishes, that will complement your portrait. The finishing touch is our Delivery Session where we can showcase your portraits to you and also arrange to have it installed at your home, if desired. That is why we call it the “Behnke Experience.”

Location

The studio is located in historic downtown Frankfort, right in the heart of the village. We often utilize our downtown surroundings in our portraits. Our address is 100 Kansas Street, Frankfort, IL 60423.

Appointments/Hours

Due to the nature of our business, we are always available by appointment. We find this is the best way to insure we are available to our clients when they need us. We have posted business hours of noon – 5pm on Tuesdays through Fridays (if not on location shoots), but be assured that we can also be available in the evenings or on weekends for your portrait needs. Due to our many commitments, call as far in advance as possible to secure your desired appointment time.

History

Our business was founded in 1956 as Behnke Studios in Cicero, Illinois by Al & Connie Behnke, Bert’s parents, then moving to their home in Mokena in 1961. In 1964, it was renamed Behnke Photographers and relocated to a storefront on US 30 in Frankfort. The Behnke’s built their next location on LaGrange Road in Frankfort in 1971, where the business remained until 2001.

Bert Behnke purchased the studio in 1985, after Al and Connie relocated to Clearwater, Florida and opened Lifestyle Photography. Cindy joined the business in 1991 after beginning her career in southern Illinois. In January, 2002, Bert and Cindy opened their dream studio in Frankfort Township/Mokena where they operated it until October of 2016 when they made the move to the historic downtown of Frankfort, their next dream!

Displays

Our work is on display at our clients homes all over the region. You can also see our work on display at various places and shows. We occasionally allow our work to be displayed at area businesses and events. If you would like to inquire about our decorating your business with our portraits, please give us a call.

Testimonials

“We just love all the Behnke photos in our home, some even going back to 1971. The prize however, is the family photo taken in our backyard in 2003 (grandkids and dog included). This hangs above the fireplace in the living room.”- Don and Ginger Alexander; Olympia Fields, IL

Forwarded to us from Elaine Maimon, President – Governors State University – “your hair: totally fabulous. And that photo! Get me the name of that photographer instantly!!”- Laura Corwin; VP of New York Times Corp.

“When guests walk into our home, conversation always stops as they reach our family room and their eyes are drawn to the portrait you took of our children. Conversation with them ends for a moment, and is replaced with exclamations such as “Wow!” “Oh my goodness, how beautiful!” “Where did you get that done?” “Where did you go?” “That is just awesome!” Then they walk up to the portrait to look more closely. The portrait you took of our children is truly a work of art”.- Mark & Michelle Verheyen; New Lenox, IL

“Buongiorno! Thank you so much for the beautiful photograph, I’m so happy! Is really a work of art and you are very talented! I hope you’ll be the photographers of my marriage.”- Cristina D.; Orvieto, Italy

“Thanks for a wonderful experience, and a great picture!!!”– Art & JoAnne Mackey

Charitable Recipients

Behnke Fine Portraiture is proud to support our community and numerous charitable organizations.